Deco Explains Why Anthony Gordon Was the "Best Fit" for Barcelona Over Marcus Rashford

Barcelona sporting director Deco has opened up on why the club chose Anthony Gordon over Marcus Rashford this summer, saying the winger was the option that best matched what Barcelona needed after their £70 million move for him from Newcastle United.

Gordon joined Barcelona just weeks after playing for England at the World Cup, and he has hit the ground running in Spain, picking up five assists in his first four LaLiga appearances.

Filling A Gap in Flick's Squad

Barcelona had the chance to sign Rashford permanently for £26 million after his loan spell at the club last season, but they chose Gordon instead, sending the England forward back to Manchester United ahead of the new campaign.

Speaking to Marca, Deco explained that Barcelona had identified a clear issue in their squad the previous season, saying the team's energy tended to drop whenever Raphinha wasn't available. He said the club looked at several wingers before settling on Gordon, adding that signing players out of the Premier League is difficult given the size of the fees involved these days, but that Gordon fit the profile they were after. He also pointed out that players are generally excited to join Barcelona's project, which makes deals like this one easier to get over the line.

A Strong Start To The Season

Barcelona backed Hansi Flick with a busy summer, also bringing in Rodri, Bernardo Silva, Gabriel Jesus and Karim Adeyemi in a spending spree worth around £150 million in total. So far, it has paid off. Barcelona currently sit top of LaLiga after winning all four of their league matches, and they also beat Feyenoord 5-1 in their opening Champions League fixture on Wednesday.

The Julian Alvarez Saga

Barcelona were also keen on signing Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez during the summer, but that pursuit fell through. Asked about the transfer, Deco said he didn't want to keep discussing it, insisting Barcelona had handled things properly by sending an offer that went unanswered. He said "there's been more talk in the press than reality," and pointed to comments already made by club president Joan Laporta, who said he had spoken to Atletico respectfully and clearly. Deco added that Barcelona never encouraged Alvarez to publicly say he wanted to leave, drawing a comparison to his own transfer to Barcelona years earlier, when Porto had asked him to stay another season before letting him move on his own terms.

Rashford Back In The Fold At United

Back in Manchester, Rashford has quickly won over United boss Michael Carrick and reclaimed a regular starting spot. After beginning the season on the bench against Hull City, he has since started United's 5-2 win over Ipswich and their 2-2 draw with Everton.

United beat Azerbaijani side Sabah 4-0 in the Champions League on Thursday night, while Gordon and Barcelona travel to face Levante in LaLiga on Sunday.